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Ken Hinkley Named Tasmania Devils AFL Coach 2028

Former Port Adelaide coach Ken Hinkley appointed as Tasmania Devils' first AFL coach ahead of 2028 debut. Competitive search ends with appointment of 59-year-old veteran.

By Los Angeles Sport Desk · Published July 19, 2026

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Ken Hinkley will serve as the Tasmania Devils’ first AFL coach when the new club begins play in 2028. The 59-year-old reached the decision after meeting with chief executive Brendon Gale and the Tasmania board on Sunday, with an official announcement scheduled for a Monday press conference in Hobart.

Why the hire stands out now

The appointment arrives less than a year after Hinkley departed Port Adelaide at the end of the 2025 season. Tasmania’s social media channels signaled the move Sunday evening, underscoring the timeline for a club still two years from its debut. Los Angeles sports followers who track league expansions and coaching transitions will recognize the pattern of a new franchise locking in leadership well before opening day.

Hinkley edged out former Collingwood coach Nathan Buckley and ex-Sydney boss John Longmire, both of whom had shown interest. Longmire held discussions with the Devils two weeks earlier, describing the talks as exploratory, while Buckley had been viewed favorably in an earlier coaching search before stepping aside.

Hinkley’s record and background

During his 13 seasons at Port from 2013 to 2025, Hinkley posted a 58.6 percent winning percentage across 297 games and 174 victories. The side reached three preliminary finals and returned to regular contention after earlier struggles, lifting attendances as results improved. He earned coach-of-the-year honors in 2013 and 2020 before choosing to step down when assistant Josh Carr sought the top role. Hinkley’s playing career included 132 games for Fitzroy and Geelong, followed by assistant coaching stints at Geelong, Gold Coast and St Kilda.

Since leaving Port, Hinkley has worked in media roles with Fox Footy and SEN. The Devils’ choice signals a preference for proven on-field stability over other high-profile options as the club prepares facilities, staff and a roster for its 2028 entry.

Los Angeles readers following global sports calendars can expect further updates on staffing and planning from the Devils in the months ahead, with the Monday Hobart announcement providing the next concrete milestone.

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